Best Manuka Honey in Australia: Top Picks for Quality and Purity in 2025

Health Apr 22, 2025 16 Add to Reading List

Manuka honey is more than just a natural sweetener—it's a superfood with powerful antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and healing properties. Thanks to its increasing popularity, the demand for high-quality manuka honey has soared across the globe. But when it comes to finding the best manuka honey in Australia, not all jars are created equal.

Australia is home to some of the most potent and pure manuka honey available. With the right knowledge, you can find a brand that’s authentic, effective, and worth every spoonful. In this guide, we’ll explore what makes Australian manuka honey unique, what to look for, and which brands consistently deliver top-notch quality.

What Makes Manuka Honey So Unique?

Manuka honey is produced by bees that pollinate the Leptospermum scoparium plant, which grows natively in Australia and New Zealand. What sets this honey apart from the rest is its high concentration of methylglyoxal (MGO)—a compound known for its antibacterial strength.

In addition to its natural sweetness, manuka honey is commonly used to:

Treat sore throats and colds
Aid digestion
Support wound healing
Improve skin conditions like acne and eczema
Boost immune health

Australian manuka honey is gaining worldwide recognition for its quality, thanks to strict production standards and the pristine environment in which it’s made.

Understanding Ratings: UMF vs. MGO

Before diving into brand recommendations, it’s important to understand the grading systems:

UMF (Unique Manuka Factor): A comprehensive certification that includes MGO, DHA, and leptosperin levels. A UMF rating of 10+ or higher is considered medicinal-grade.
MGO (Methylglyoxal): Directly measures the concentration of the active compound. MGO 250+ or more is effective for most therapeutic purposes.

When searching for the best manuka honey in Australia, always look for certified products. These ratings ensure you're getting the real deal, not a diluted or mislabeled version.

What to Look for in Top-Quality Manuka Honey

Not all manuka honey is created equal. To make a smart purchase, consider these factors:

✅ Certified Ratings

Look for jars with official UMF or MGO labels. These indicate the honey has been independently tested and verified.

✅ 100% Australian Origin

Honey harvested and packaged in Australia is subject to stricter standards and is typically fresher.

✅ Raw and Unfiltered

Raw honey retains its natural enzymes and antibacterial properties. Avoid overly processed or pasteurized options.

✅ Sustainable Sourcing

Ethical beekeeping practices protect both bee populations and the environment—an important consideration for conscious consumers.

Top Picks: Best Manuka Honey in Australia

Here are some of the most recommended and trusted manuka honey brands available in Australia today. These selections are based on expert reviews, lab certifications, and consumer feedback.

1. Berringa Australian Manuka Honey

MGO Ratings: 120+ to 900+
Location: Victoria
Why it stands out:
Berringa is one of the most respected names in Australian manuka honey. Their honey is organically certified, lab-tested, and sustainably harvested. Whether you're after daily wellness or targeted healing, their wide MGO range offers something for everyone.

2. Australian by Nature

UMF Ratings: 10+ to 20+
Location: New South Wales
Why it stands out:
With over 20 years in the health industry, Australian by Nature provides high-grade, UMF-certified manuka honey that’s 100% sourced from local bees. It’s a reliable brand for medicinal-grade manuka and daily immune support.

3. Manuka Life

MGO Ratings: 100+ to 900+
Location: Western Australia
Why it stands out:
Manuka Life takes quality control seriously. Their honey is produced in collaboration with universities and scientific labs. The result? Potent, traceable manuka honey that's consistently rated among the best manuka honey in Australia for medical and wellness use.

4. Honey for Life

UMF Ratings: 15+
Location: Tasmania
Why it stands out:
A smaller, boutique producer focusing on raw and small-batch honey. Perfect for those seeking artisan-grade manuka honey that’s clean, rich in flavor, and full of natural health benefits.

5. Tasmanian Honey Company

MGO Ratings: 250+ and up
Location: Tasmania
Why it stands out:
They offer beautifully packaged, premium manuka honey that’s been ethically harvested in the pristine wilderness of Tasmania. Great for gifting—or treating yourself.

Why Choose Australian Manuka Honey?

Many people associate manuka honey exclusively with New Zealand, but Australia produces equally high-quality honey—and in some cases, even higher MGO levels. Here’s why buying Australian-made manuka is a smart move:

Biodiversity: Australia has over 80 native Leptospermum species compared to New Zealand’s single variety, offering diverse health properties.
Strict Regulations: Australian food safety and export standards are world-class.
Local Economy Support: Buying Australian brands helps support local farmers, beekeepers, and sustainable agriculture.

How to Use Manuka Honey for Health Benefits

Once you’ve chosen your favorite brand, here’s how to get the most out of it:

Daily Immune Boost: Take a teaspoon every morning.
Sore Throat Relief: Mix with warm water and lemon.
Skin Treatment: Apply to minor burns, cuts, or acne.
Digestive Aid: Add to smoothies, yogurt, or oatmeal.
Face Mask: Blend with oats or yogurt for a natural glow.

Note: Use raw manuka honey, and avoid adding it to boiling liquids—it can reduce its natural benefits.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When shopping for manuka honey, don’t fall for marketing tricks. Avoid:

Uncertified Labels: Phrases like “active honey” or “manuka blend” without UMF or MGO ratings can be misleading.
Too-Good-To-Be-True Pricing: High-grade manuka is expensive to produce. Bargain prices often mean lower quality.
No Traceability: Reputable brands usually include batch numbers or QR codes for lab test verification.

Final Thoughts

Finding the best manuka honey in Australia is about more than just picking a pretty jar off the shelf. It’s about understanding what makes manuka honey special, knowing how to read labels, and choosing brands that are transparent and trusted.

Whether you want to strengthen your immune system, soothe a sore throat, or simply enjoy a spoonful of something naturally powerful, manuka honey is a worthwhile investment in your health.